EFCC Detains Nasir El-Rufai as DSS Files Cybercrime Charges Amid Allegations of Opposition Crackdown Under President Tinubu
Ademola Busayo 
Former Kaduna State Governor and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Nasiru El-Rufai, has been detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja, contrary to claims that he had been released.
Highly placed sources at the anti-corruption agency revealed on Monday night that El-Rufai “has a lot to answer for” and is expected to remain in custody for questioning. The interrogation may require a court-ordered remand to allow the EFCC sufficient time to build a solid case against him.
El-Rufai voluntarily turned himself in on Monday following a formal invitation from the commission, which is investigating his tenure as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023.
Earlier, in June 2024, a committee established by the Kaduna State House of Assembly to probe finances, loans, and contracts awarded under El-Rufai’s administration submitted its findings. Committee Chairman Henry Zacharia reported that many of the loans were misused or obtained without following due process.
Speaker Yusuf Liman added that N423 billion was allegedly misappropriated, leaving the state with significant liabilities.
The committee recommended investigation and prosecution of El-Rufai and members of his cabinet for alleged abuse of office, diversion of public funds, and money laundering.
It also called for the suspension of Shizer Badda, former Commissioner for Finance under El-Rufai. At the time, El-Rufai’s spokesman, Muyiwa Adekeye, dismissed the committee’s claims as “scandalous” and defended the integrity of the administration.
According to confirmed reports, EFCC has detained El-Rufai for further questioning, while the Department of State Services (DSS) has filed a three-count criminal charge against him at the Federal High Court, Abuja.
On Monday, hundreds of protesters gathered at the Kaduna State House of Assembly demanding a formal update on the committee’s investigation.
El-Rufai arrived at EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, around 11 a.m., accompanied by hundreds of supporters. A source at the commission confirmed he is under investigation, though the duration of his questioning remains unclear. Another source suggested he could face arraignment.
Last Thursday, El-Rufai had evaded arrest by security operatives at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, later alleging in interviews that National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu orchestrated the attempt.
The former governor may remain in EFCC custody as investigations into alleged corruption and abuse of office continue.
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Emmanuel Femi Adedayo 
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